OCT. 20-27th 2013- Caribbean Journey with Teresa Collins CruiseRoyal Caribbean Cruise with Teresa Collins and EMI Scrapbooking
Sail Date- 20 October 2013
7 Nights Eastern Caribbean
To Book Your Room Contact Royal Caribbean International at the Following Number 1-800-465-3595
Group Number 5953562 (Give this to the Guest Service Agent)
Contact Susan @ EMI 770-888-2417

March 30, 2012

Thank you for joining in on the chat last night on facebook. It was so fun and wow...nothing like speed typing. There was so many of you on there and I had to keep refreshing the page. The winners will be on the bottom of this post.

So my kits are headed to ART INSPIRED STUDIOS!!!! I am excited to be going soon. They are located in Northern California, in between Sacramento and San Francisco. There is a “Brentwood” near Santa Monica in Southern California.

I am looking forward to this trip and especially excited about the three workshops that I am teaching there! The projects will be there any day now. You will be able to see them behind the display.

This is FRIDAY nights photo flip display album. It is sold out! However, due to popular demand- I am teaching it AGAIN one more time in HOUSTON TX...JUNE at By Design. Sign ups start now! Promise this is the last time ever to teach with the World Traveler line. It's sold out and I had to scrap to be able to do this project again. PS... your display does not have to be travel themed. In fact- mine is filled with my favorite family photos.

This workshop is HUGE... seriously a big project! Last I heard there was only two or three spots left in the workshop. It is a three hour workshop and it's really a beautiful project. You will get to use my black damask flocked covers (they are sold out too!) that I have saved some to use for a workshop. Again, I will be teaching this workshop ONE more time at By Design in June again. However, it will be the very last time. This project is all about helping you tell your EVERYDAY moments- your routine...what your life is about. I cherish my book- it has a lot of meaning for me.

The last workshop that I am teaching at ART INSPIRED STUDIOS is full of technique- stamps, embossing, book binding, etc. It CAN be a calendar or it can be a really cool flip up book project. I created exclusive PDF calendar pages for this project. Yes, and I used lots of cool tags for this project to make it more interactive.

So join me... we are going to have a fun time. I know the owners and they are just the sweetest girls and are so excited.

Winner of HUGE paper pack from TC Designs- Suz Gray. Congrats to the TEN fabulous winners- thank you! PLEASE email with WHAT you won in the subject line and your full name and address to teresa@teresacollinsdesigns.com.

Looking forward today to lunch with a girlfriend and then watching Zach play in a baseball game this afternoon. I love Fridays!

March 29, 2012

I am live on FACEBOOK right NOW... yes, I'm chatting on the facebook page for MY CRAFT CHANNEL. I will be there for the next hour- 8pm-9pm MST. If you are on facebook- please join in on the chat and feel free to chat with me. I would love to hear from you. It is against the rules to do contests directly on FACEBOOK...so if you post HERE tonight YOU can win some awesome prizes.

XYRON sponsors my craft channel segments at My Craft Room. YOU CAN WIN ONE OF THE 8 Teresa Collins X's.

However, if you don't win- they have sweetened the pot. Please go to www.xyron.com to buy a great bundle Xyron is featuring TONIGHT. This bundle is $19.99 and includes the Teresa Collins Sticker Maker and 100' of Permanent Adhesive. Until Midnight tonight we are also offering FREE Ground Shipping on orders... It's a great deal. Don't miss out with the FREE shipping!

Tonight I am chatting at MY CRAFT ROOM www.facebook.com/mycraftchannel facebook live at 8pm MST (8pm-9 pm). I have my own show each week and I love it. They are having sweeps week- giving away lot of prizes. They asked me today to do a online chat...So in a few hours, the chat begins.

Also,so does some AMAZING PRIZE giveaways right here on my blog!!!! This post will be updated with more information in a little over 3.5 hours. JOIN in on the fun.

I have to say that I loved reading the design team blog today. Jamie Harder did a layout and talked about her daughter and the frustrations at not being "perfect" at new things. It really spoke to me. I think all of us have our own unique challenges. As a young girl, I dealt with a father that was not a cheerleader in my world. He was not a normal father in any sense to me growing up. I never could figure out why he could not love and accept me. His remarks were often so cruel and probably was the biggest reason why I have struggled with my weight (always striving to be perfect)...from his comments. I have to say that I am 1,000% not blaming him for this, because NOW I see I have overcame so much from NOT letting his hurtful words ALWAYS stay with me. It did take me years to get over and accepting that he could not treat me and love me like a "normal" father. I don't know why I have never spoken about this before. It used to embarrass me. How could a father not love his own daughter? Well, I am here to tell you that I grew up with this. NOTHING could be perfect enough in his eyes.

So I started at the age of FIVE trying to be "perfect." I would not ever speak back to him. I would keep my room spotless. Yes, I knew if I did not- he would come into my room and DUMP every single thing from my dressers and create a HUGE mess for me to clean up. I would be crying and not understand why if I had left ONE thing out that he would then create a mess that took me hours to clean. It was a very abusive mental cycle. I guess you could say I was "lucky" that he never beat me. He beat my mother instead. Yes, it was a daily scary warzone in my family. I will tell you that I relied on prayer my entire life to give me peace. I was so confused.

When I was about ten years old (I was VERY slim!!!) my dad decided to not call me Teresa anymore. He called me OX... yes, like the animal. He said I was BIG and that he had a new name for me. I was CRUSHED. Who wants to have a nickname like this? A small girl who wants to be loved and wants her dad to accept her. So he called me this name ongoing from this point. I remember my mom, tried to make me feel better. She told me he called me OX because I was such a strong girl. So with this information, I thought... I need to lose weight. If I was skinnier then HE would love me. I remember I was 95 lbs at this time. Yes, 95 lbs.

This started a very vicious mental cycle for me. In my mind- I struggled with weight because of this. My mother decided a couple of years later, that she would put me in a "beauty pagent." I did not want to do it. My mother told me that I was beautiful, but due to my dad was always telling me "not to gain weight." She was a Southern mother and she was direct in her thoughts. She just wanted me to loss 5 lbs before the pagent and I would be "PERFECT." I did not want to do the pagent. Hello, getting in front of hundreds of people in the center of our BIG MALL and wearing a bathing suit. What had I got myself into???? My dad told me I did not have a chance because I was "too big" - I was 110 lbs at this time. All I could think about was the jiggle and wiggle of wearing a bathing suit and HEELS at the same time and walking the T.

I will tell you... I am NOT a pagent girl. I did the pageant and a miracle happened. Holy COW... I was crowned the winner. Imagine my surprise. I was really in SHOCK. Right then, I was given a modeling contract and several people wanted to sponsor me. They thought I was "PERFECT." This was a MAJOR changing point in my life. My father and mother decided to divorce that same SUMMER and I was somewhat free from the daily "emotional crap" that he always told me.

I did not want to do another pageant. I did not want to be critiqued and judged any more. Everyone- especially my mother thought I was crazy. I had learned a big lesson. I was going to work on loving myself as I am. It gave me a big boost in self worth when I needed it most. My world- my HOME...my peace was better after my dad left. The scars were still there. I am a direct result of my past. I still have to battle certain issues because of my past. Don't we all? I choose to listen to God's voice. I know I am HIS child. I know that HE loves me. Even when my own earthly dad could not. It's okay... as I have aged I have become a stronger me due to my experiences. I am a passionate mother. My husband says I am a mother bear and protector. I NEVER want my children to be harmed inside OUR HOME. I can control that. I know that the world is hard, mean and unkind at times, but I can have a home where they feel OVER THE MOON loved and wanted. Yes, wanted. I want them to never doubt the simple but profound truth that they are loved.

This layout from Jamie Harder is what had me feeling like I should SHARE what I went through. I want my kids to know WHY I love them so much and why I think they are PERFECT just the way they are. Thank you Jamie for inspiring me...

"In my world lately, we are dealing with my sweet girl's frustrations when she is not immediately successful at something she is new to. She is a bit of a "perfectionist" and I am trying to get her to understand that "perfection" is not the goal. I want her to know that she should feel safe to try new things and know that with hard work and practice she can do anything! I want her to know that she is not "perfect" but that she will always be "perfect" to me!

Now I typically have a very clean style but I wanted for the theme of this page to show some "imperfection" if you will. So I cut out a flower from the Spring Fling collection and I crumpled it up into a ball. And that felt good. But I didn't stop there. Nope..I got out my sandpaper and I scratched it all up. There. Perfectly imperfect.

I challenged myself on this layout to use bits and pieces I had and I ended up mixing three collections on this layout; Spring Fling, Fabrications and Everyday Poetry. So let your imaginations run wild and see what you create!- Jamie Harder"

Now I give you a challenge... go find those special people in your life... CHILDREN, HUSBAND, MOM, DAD, FRIEND, SISTER, BROTHER and tell them today how much you love them. Let them know how much they mean to you and you love them just as they are!!!! Have a great day.

March 28, 2012

Today was a long but fun day. We had a fun day filming videos at my office (I even got Nick to film it with me!), sorted through all the new MID-RELEASE products. I am so HAPPY with the line. I can't wait to share it with you in just a few days. I will be sharing the video in the next couple of days. The release will be up on MONDAY. That is the day retailers may order my latest collection. I packed up the design team boxes with Sesil and I can't wait to see what the girls create. That reminds me... WE want to see what you create with my products. Please link them on FACEBOOK at www.facebook/tcdesigns.com or email them to sesil@teresacollinsdesigns.com. You never know when YOU could be featured.

Tonight we went to Zach's baseball games and it was windy and started to rain. STILL... I love these games. I love watching the boys perform. This is the LAST two months of superleague and then it's OVER. Zach is going into 9th grade next year and this Summer he will be playing for Cottonwood High School again. I know high school baseball will be great, but I will MISS the parents and the atmosphere that he has had with the baseball academy. Zach caught the entire two days tonight. He is much taller than me now and his voice is "manly" now. ha!

I wanted to show a really cool Carolina Breeze layout by Julie Jacob. This line was my mid- release and it has been a big hit. I think the yellow, gray combo is just so pretty. I love how Julie altered the papers though to a more mixed media/glimmer mist project.

Hmmm. I love anything to do with dictionary and stitching. I love this!

She even used some of my TIMELESS brads. Thanks Julie for always inspiring!!!!!!

I am going to be working on new mid-release projects and NEW My Craft Channel segments for the next few days. I even have a very special GUEST DESIGNER who will be helping me to DEBUT the new collection. Can't wait to reveal who it is!

March 27, 2012

This is week one of two weeks of SPRING BREAK in our home. My kids go to two diffrent school districts. Yes, Zach will be the rebel and go to Cottonwood HS so he can play baseball for them. Anyway, this week Ty and McKay are home. It's been hard since I can't take the kids on a fun trip. I still have to get Zach to school each day. So today we went to lunch at Chili's. There is a salad there that I eat everytime. (cobb salad- no bacon,cheese or dressing! add Salsa instead and it's no carb and only 350 calories!!!!) It was so fun just being with the kids. Afterwards, I treated by taking them to go get ice cream from COLD STONES. I timed it so that Zach could have a treat too. Did I mention I don't buy ice cream for our home? Yes, it's my WEAKNESS and so I don't buy it ever. My kids are treated occasionally to ice cream, but we go out for it. That way I'm not tempted to eat the ENTIRE container.

I went today for a check up and I am the EXACT same weight still. I am maintaining. I am so happy! I think this is a huge deal for me. I have once a week allowed myself to eat a "normal meal" and seeing if I can maintain and stablize my weight. I am honestly not worried about losing more weight even though by the charts I should be about 10-15 lbs lighter. I will say that maintaining is a COMMITMENT and it's just as hard or maybe harder than losing it. I'm serious!

I have some big changes to announce in the next week. As a company I have grown so fast and well with that growth, I had to hire help and readjust some jobs. I feel so blessed to be able to do this- it's truly my passion. I am so fortunate to work with Xyron, Provo Craft and have some wonderful things in store. So watch as I debut my NEW mid-release on MONDAY!!!!!!!! I'm even working on a video too.

I wanted to share a EVERYDAY MOMENTS mini book and post by Cheri Piles: (posted on Design team blog)

"Everyone is loving the Everyday Moments collection, I too am addicted to this line! I recently helped out a friend in her booth at a local Creating Keepsakes expo and I LOVED hearing all of the comments on the new lines!

With this new mini book I wanted to show how you could use this line with some pretty bold spring colors and bring in a vintage feel at the same time. To create the overall look I inked all of the edges in "antique linen" which matches the color in the papers perfectly with it's just a hint of tan. Then I sanded everything to give it a really SOFT feel letting some of the chipboard of the book show through on the edges.

The cover of this page has a scalloped edge with holes and I glittered the edge in a blue color and added the die cut word "today" over the top then added the little clear rhinestones in the center of each hole. I love the blue gem in the center of the clock sticker. I used Therm OWeb 3D foam squares on the "Memory" and "love the everyday" die cuts. Then I slipped the wing of the TC "trinket" bird just under the "love the everyday" banner.

On the back of the cover I used glossy accents on the "remember this" banner to give it more demension. I also added blue crystals to the blue damask pattern. I cut this piece from the right edge of the "collage" paper and matted it onto a spring green cardstock. I love how the colors go so well.

I used my Provo Craft Cricut Cuttle Bug and ran the papers "yellow dots", the back side of "calendar" and some old lunch sacks through it using a floral die and leaf shaped die. I also used an embossing folder on the leaves. I put the large crown brad in the center and encircled it in the blue scallop rhinestone strip by just cutting the scallops apart, because they are self adhesive they are easy to manipulate.

This is a pocket page, where I used the "collage" paper to cover the chipboard and then added another flower and the "Observations" die cut journal tag. To finish it off I added the "notes" tab on the top left.

March 26, 2012

Today is the debut of my latest show on www.mycraftchannel.com is all about how to use all the paper pads that are so popular! So I showed how I like to create with my paper pad collections. I showed cards and tags with my 6x6 and 8x8 paper pads. To make it even easier TODAY right here on my blog you can download for free the special TC PDF of card sentiments that I used on the show today.

I also showed how easy and fun it is to use my new TC Xyron X sticker maker to make each sentiment into a sticker to adhere on the cards.

Here are some photos from today's show.

Here is the free download for you to print and use for your own cards!

Now I had to share a project that Julie Jacob designed. She is such a source of inspiration on my design team and I hope it inspires you too! This is a post from on the DESIGN TEAM blog. We blog FIVE days a week and so if you get a chance go see all the creative goodness that is found there: www.teresacollinsdesignteam.blogspot.com

31 Days of Lists with Julie Jacob- as told by JULIE....

Hey there...I want to share a fun project I've been working on all month.

I signed up to take 30 Days of Lists...a super fun, super affordable month-long project. Each day a prompt for that day's list is emailed to me...then I make my list and add it to my little book.

I should start off by saying I LOVE to make lists. Always have. :)I so look forward to those prompts each morning.

I began by making my list book. I found an old, hardback copy of Mutiny on the Bounty at the Thrift Store:

Since March has 31 days...I decided my book would have 31 lists, even though the class is 30 Days of Lists. I'm just an on the edge kind of girl like that.

Turns out Mutiny on the Bounty has more than 31 pages to it. Huh.I tore out pages (and saved them), and glue sticked pages together until I had 31 sections of pages...make sense?

On the right hand side of each page, I adhered various papers. I used lots of scraps for this. I love using scraps. Makes me feel all justified for keeping them.

Here's my book cover after I dooded it up a little:

You can see all my previous pages/lists on my blog...but here is the last one I completed:

If I had an extra hour, I would....

get more laundry done, take a nap, get more errands run, read more, make more stuff, have wonderful hot meals prepared each night, take a nap, walk on the treadmill faithfully, dust? probably not, take a nap.

March 25, 2012

I have been meaning to share my newest design set with Provo Craft for the CRICUT CRAFT ROOM. These are all with the EASTER theme. I am loving the paper basket, cupcake wrapper, Easter phrases, the cute bows, bunnies and chicks...the eggs too. I guess you could say I can't pick a favorite. There are digital images named Bunnies and Chicks and EASTER BASKET. These sets have adorable Easter designs that are perfect for holiday cards and projects. www.cricut.com

Here are some projects made with my new digital images-

Easter Card and Basket by Sesil Cratin

This is my new FABRICATIONS paper collection too!

Or you create your own paper Easter baskets... or really an kind of basket.

Here are some more designs by Collette Nederhoff

I love how she cut out the CUTE bunny and then ran it through the Cuttlebug to add the dots!!!!!

This past Thursday was Tyler's birthday. He is always so hard to buy for. I decided to give him some meaningful gifts and some FUNNY gifts.

Well, the mug was meant to be a funny gift. However, I ordered it in BLACK not pink. However, when I picked it up it was PINK. If you know my husband you will know that he simply is not a fan of having his photo taken. So it is always a struggle to get photos of him. This was our family photo shot in December.

This picture makes me giggle because he WAS NOT smiling or wanting to be doing the shot. So this mug is really a little funny reminder of that day. Now that it is pink...it's even better.

This is the large photo canvas that I ordered for him. Like I said... he doesn't really want anything, but he did like this.

I am going to find a frame to put the canvas inside. I love having photos around the home and this one is the first thing you will see when you come into our home. *PHOTO CREDIT- Michael Sandberg.

We also went to see Hunger Games at the movie theatre. I cried... I won't talk about it since I don't want to spoil it for anyone. I did not think I would like it. I definitely do not think this movie is good for younger kids. I did like it very much though.

We had a big family dinner today at our home today. All the kids came up and Ty's mother made the most beautiful dinner for us. She is amazing! I am doing another cleanse (no food at all) for a few days. It still amazes me how much better I feel when I do this every couple of months. It's really not as hard as you would think. It has been a great weekend!

March 21, 2012

I am so excited to let you know about a new and exciting kit program that we are doing at TCD. We are doing MONTHLY retailer kits now. These are some views of the kits that you can purchase at your local scrapbook stores:

This is the FABRICATIONS kit. It comes will all papers, diecuts, blingage, 10x10 chipoard cover and all the step by step instructions. Shipping now!

This is the SPRING FLING album kit. It is so adorable! You get free PFD sheets to create your projects. I love this album. Some items are not included and will be stated: example GIRLS is a alphabet chipboard. The buttons, twill, papers, diecut, pdf sheet are included along with the instructions.

This is the third kit- EVERYDAY MOMENTS- It comes with all the papers, chipboard cover, blingage (wings, dangle, etc) pdf sheet, and more. *note tulle ribbon is not included.

You can ask you favorite store if they have them or to order them. Stores please contact: nick@teresacollinsdesigns.com. We are thrilled with this new program. You can teach the projects or you can sell them as a kit that they take home and do.

Also, this weekend- Nick, Sesil and I will be at the SCRAPBOOK EXPO USA in Sandy UT on Friday. Look for our booth (we are sharing a booth with MME!!!!) You can find some GREAT deals on my past collections. We have put together some kits with products that we only have very limited quantities left- so come check it out! I am excited to see all my friends and get a chance to walk about the EXPO. Provo Craft is the main sponsor of the big event. Hope to see many of my crafty friends there!

PLUS... this weekend...UTAH mixed media girls- I wanted to share a workshop that is taking place by my friend Candice.

March 20, 2012

My daughter is so funny. She is 17 years old and in love with the band ONE DIRECTION. Oh, yes...they are HOT...ha! That is what she thinks. She came home today and listened to their music VERY loudly for about an hour. It was blaring. I have to admit, I do like their music too.

If you are not aware of the HUGE craze here for this band. Watch the video. I would imagine quite a few of you reading my blog know their music and might have a BIG FAN in your home too. Don't we all remember those innocent crushes that we each had when we were younger?

Today I had my 14 week check "in" at my clinic for health & wellness. I am down 32 pounds. Hmmm... I have to say that I am having a huge problem right now. I have ZERO energy and I'm always FREEZING cold. It is really so hard to deal with. I was put on natual supplements- a thyroid natural and DHEA vitamins. I slept 10 HOURS last night. Yes, that is too much for me. I used to sleep 6 hours at the most and now I am sleeping way too much. I took lots of tests today and I was THRILLED with the results. I am so much healthier and I feel great- minus the lack of energy. As for weight loss- I am not ACTIVELY striving to lose anymore. I want to maintain my loss and eat the same way as I have been. I know that eating "clean" has changed me so much and I know that it will help me as I grow older and face ailments that will could potentially arise as the body ages. I had three women come up to me at church Sunday and ask "what is your secret? What are you doing? How did you lose so much weight?" I explained my new way of eating and literally- this is what I heard.... "oh, that is too hard!" I get it. It is not easy and I would be lying if I said this has been "so easy." I made a choice and I took that promise to myself VERY seriously. I wanted to control my "out of control" eating. I wanted to eat food that would be GOOD for me. I want to have a healthy heart. (*my dad died at the age of 52 of a heart attack) I want to exercise more again. I feel so positive about how good I feel now. I wish I had done it sooner!

March 19, 2012

This weekend was so much fun. We had a busy family weekend. Zach was playing in a baseball tournament in Mesquite, NV. I had planned to go and then at the last minute could not go. So I invited all the kids to come over and watch movies and just spend time together. It really was the BEST weekend. Oh, and I love REDBOX!

Here I am with Zellie. She is so big and you should see the ROLLS on this girl. Yes, she has some seriously cute bootie! Can I say that? ha. Anyway, I missed Zach and Ty so much but I decided to occupy the weekend (off line/ no WORK) and make family memories. Kayla and the kids came up and that is always so much fun! I realize I need to ENJOY these moments, these times are special and fleeting. I love having so many kids- yes, I am thankful we decided to have so many children. It is the thing I am MOST thankful for. Ty and I have SEVEN children- his/her's and ours. We love our big family.

Today there is a NEW TC show on MY CRAFT CHANNEL. It is charming! Today I will show you my favorite way to make personalized and beautiful charms. Learn how to use the Epiphany Crafts

tools ( i am in love!!!), charms and bubble caps to create necklaces. The possibilities are endless as you create with this amazing little tool!

I want to thank Tricia and Brian for creating some seriously amazing tools that are a "go to" in my crafty world. They have many shapes and styles and I am especially drawn to the charms. I know that every store that I see that carries the tools- they are always sold out! Also, they are a craft sell out favorite at HSN so I wanted to do a show showing you why I love the tools so much.

March 16, 2012

I have a ongoing issue with vein problems. I am not talking spider veins. I am talking the kind of veins that require a vascular surgeon to surgically remove the veins. Yes, they are hereditary. However, my mother did not have an extreme issues with her veins- like I do. I first noticed the problem when I was pregnant with my last baby- Tyler. I was about 5 or 6 months pregnant and I noticed a EXTREMELY large vein that was BULGING down my leg. It was so big and it hurt. Then I had the stroke when I was 7 months pregnant. They did so many ultrasounds and tests. They had feared a blood clot in my legs had caused the stroke. They never could to this day pinpoint WHY I had a stroke. I went on heparin until I delivered my son.

A month or so after I had my son, I had to go in and have my veins STRIPPED surgically. They literally went in and removed the large vein in my right leg. It seems my RIGHT leg has the biggest issues. All seems to be fine, but a couple of years ago...I noticed the same area in my leg and the vein seems to be "bulging" again just a little bit. I watched it as it grew larger and larger AGAIN. I knew it was not going to get better and larger than ever and so I went in yesterday to visit the same surgeon to see what he thought.

I guess my condition is as RARE as having 5 wisdom teeth. It is so rare, but my vein bascially "rooted" with other superficial veins to come back as a big ole mess. I thought about showing you photos but TRUST ME they are not pretty and look horrible. Hence, I never wear shorts (only capris) and dresses have to be long enough to cover the bulging vein in my right leg.

They did a ultrasound and I find out that behind my RIGHT KNEE is a HUGE bakers cyst. Oh, yes... I guess my body is falling apart. ha! They mentioned it was so large 2.5" wide and could not believe I was not in pain. I had no idea. Well, I did learn good news- I have low blood pressure, my heart sounds great and well I decided to focus on the good news.

Next, I find out I can't have surgery (which I truly need again) for 12 weeks. Yes, our insurance makes you wait or they will not approve it. The doctor was so frustrated as he explained this to me. He said veins can be VERY serious health risks and does not like that the insurance companies will not allow exceptions for those of us who need it promptly taken care of.

I am now scheduled for the surgery this June. I am going to the same vein specialist and I am thankful and feel peace about having the surgery AGAIN. Hopefully...the second time is the charm! I know it sounds weird but I think I have had these vein issues to remind me to really appreciate my body and not focus on the imperfections. My legs will always have those reminders of my vein issues and the scars from surgery. I'm so okay with this.

Is it only a cosmetic concern? For many people, varicose veins and spider veins (these are the smaller and more common variation of varicose veins) makes them feel less attractive. Yes, mine are so not cute. ha! However, it's important to note that varicose veins cause aching pain and discomfort. This condition can or may lead to serious problems if not treated. The worst part is now my children are more likely to get them as well.

Zach is having a fabulous tournament this weekend. They won both of their games yesterday. He is hitting well and really enjoying the HOT weather. It's been perfect weather. Looking forward to a great weekend!

March 15, 2012

Baseball has officially started (big time) in our home. In fact, Zach is playing in a tournament this weekend. We have spring break next week for two of our kids and it seems like keeps getting busier. I am loving this "stage" of our life. It makes me happy. Each day we have in life is just a "gift." I am especially grateful for the warmth that is coming. I LOVE to power walk. It's really my favorite physical activity. I like to listen to music and use this hour as I walk as a way to THINK about life. It helps me to focus, relax and BONUS- exercise. I think we each have to find something that we love and feel we do well at. When it comes to exercise- walking is a natural fit for me. Anyway, I love the longer days now... the sunshine and will be walking much more.

Here is a layout that I really enjoyed and reminded me to enjoy the SUNSHINE-

Use the World Traveler Maps paper featuring the red grid. It makes a neutral, yet interesting pattern. The red really coordinates with the yellow and black, picking up on the colors of my photos. Spray with blue mist.Use a ¼” wide strip of the Kayla paper to go along the top and ground the page. Cut a circle about 2.75” in diameter from the Nellie paper. That will represent the sun. Place the two die-cut circles in the middle and finish with a brad.Cut the scallops from the Myrla paper. Cut one that it two scallops wide and 6.5” in length. The other is 3.5 scallops wide and 7.5” long. Tuck them near the sun.Place cut scallops randomly around the page, overlapping two strips. I love how it gives the feel of sunbeams.Place your photos on the bottom right, tucking a circular die-cut underneath. The Place ticket and felt heart are from my stash and are meant to add a touch of red.Use the Always banner from the die-cut sheet as a part of the title. Tuck an artisan die-cut under it to hold the title.The photo corner provides a stopping point for the eye.

March 14, 2012

It is that time of year where I am itching to wear my capris and wear my short sleeved shirts. I got a little taste of it last weekend in California. I love the beautiful colors in my newest collection- Spring Fling. They make me happy. I wanted to share some beautiful projects with you designed with the line.

Isn't this 12x12 layout adorable and FUN????? I love it.

Sesil Cratin designed this sweet layout. Of course, I love the gems and the whimsical feel of the page.

March 13, 2012

We are home!!!! This was amazing. I truly am so thankful that I was able to go and watch my daughter and her team perform. It was my LAST drill team competition to watch as a drill team mom. I was so emotional during the awards. My heart was tender and they asked the girls to stand and look at their parents. They told the girls to thank us for allowing them to dance and have these experiences. I lost it...cried like a baby as I watched McKay look over at me and mouth.... thanks and that she loved me from across the crowded room. It was worth everything for this sweet moment. I cried again as I told my husband and Taylor about that special moment at the competition.

On yesterdays blog post I showed and talked about the IMAGE TRANSFER sheets- I purchased mine here:

I wanted to share some photos. Unfortunately, McKay was robbed last night at the train station in Six Flags. Someone stole her camera (with hundreds of photos from the trip) and her ipod. She is my "trusting" girl and had them on the top of her bag. The bag was by her feet. Yes, a hard lesson to learn. I felt so bad in that I wanted the photos that she took...they were from HER perspective. I have lots but not the same as her's. I took some photos off of facebook to share on my blog. WARNING: There are a LOT of photos in this post. I know our family will be waiting patiently for these photos.

They arrived at Disneyland on Thursday and decided to do a handstand. I love it! These girls were all about having TWO days of non-stop fun at "the happiest place on earth." Everyone watching them loved how happy and carefree the girls were.

They were having so much fun!!!!!! Ahhh... such fun times.

Here they decided to be asleep on the ride... oh, they are such fun girls!!!!

McKay wanted to be the first one on the SPLASH MOUNTAIN ride. Can you see me in the photo? Yes, I am the girl with my head down. I get afraid on any ride that goes straight down. I got soaked. I do love this ride.

Josilyn and McKay... these best friends are so wonderful for each other. I love to watch them together! I love that no matter what they are there for each other. They have been the closest of friends since the beginning of 7th grade. Next year, they will go off to college together.

They stayed at the Knotts Berry Farm hotel. They never stopped taking lots of photos!!!! (grateful scrapbooker here)

Cassidy, Lexi, McKay and Josilyn....

I was so lucky to get to hang out with cool moms!!!! Tammy, Jill and Becky and I had a TOTAL blast. We wanted our girls to be with their friends so we spend a lot of time together. Our daughters seemed to find us when they needed money or wanted to shop! I need to thank them for always going to restaurants where I could find a nice healthy salad. I really appreciate that they support my efforts to be healthy.

McKay loved the leather shop in Frontierland. She got a bracelet engraved with her name and one for Gentry. It's fun to be able to personalize stuff since their names are never available premade.

On the Jungle Cruise and McKay was tired of me taking photos. Lucky for us- I did not listen or we would not have any photos since her camera was stolen.

It was a warm 80 degree day and I loved just being with my girl. It was so much fun! Plus, I got lots of exercise at the park. I lost one pound while I was on vacation. Ha!

The group prior to going on Tower of Terror. THIS was votest the BEST RIDE by all the girls and MOST of the mothers. They loved it! I reluctantly went on it for the second time ever. I am not a fan of the falling. I did it to be with them though. Plus, all the mothers went and I wanted to give it one more time. I liked it LOTS more the second time. FACED the fear!

In Frontierland they did handstands AGAIN for the man playing the fiddle. I don't know how they do this without hurting their heads!!!!

I

I drank so much water and decided to not get any of the YUMMY treats at the park. I knew if I started I would not stop. ha! I bought the pink hat and the pink Mickey shirt. Yes, I was in DISNEYLAND MODE. Plus, I love PINK!

We met up at the end of the day on Friday and then we all went to BUBBA GUMPS as a group for dinner. I happen to love shellfish and love the restaurant. Just the mom's went BACK to Disneyland to see the COLOR waterfall show. AMAZING!!!! It was a long day.

Then on Saturday it was NATIONALS competition. It was a long 12 plus hour day. The school that hosted it was amazing and was the perfect host.

Our drill coach loves bling and the girls have the BEST drill bling. You know I love it!!!!

This is the girls in the HIP HOP routine. They did amazing. They love the routine because it is fast, fun and they dance to INSANE by Brittany Spears.

This is the second number- DANCE. The song is EXPRESS YOURSELF remix. McKay had not been feeling well and was on lots of medicine. However, by this point she was smiling and feeling a bit better.

This is our girls during Military!!!! The girls were spotless- not a mistake and the routine is by far their BEST dance. They were so great and everyone was impressed with their level of difficulty. We took second in Region here in Utah and always felt that the girls deserved to win in this category but dance can be very political. So it was nice to perform it with judges who were unbiased.

The girls were feeling so pleased and happy with their routines at this point.

Here is Josilyn (drill mistress) and McKay (head captain).

Next was the CHARACTER dance. This was a tango/latin dance and some of the girls dance with full size manniquins. It is a fun and very upbeat routine. McKay is a boy in this routine. *no she does not really like having a mustache. ha!

The last dance is POM. It is a really cute dance. The song is STAR SHIP by Niki Minaj. Again, it was so entertaining to watch.

Then they had the awards for the girls. This is the results for our team:

1st in division MILITARY and 1st in OVERALL military

They beat all the teams there. This was a HUGE accomplishment. Hillcrest, Cottonwood, Union, Lehi (all teams from Utah) and all the other teams. In our Region in Utah- Hillcrest always beat us- but not at the National Competition this year. Many tears were shed. It was a special moment for the team!

1st in division prop

1st in division dance

2nd in division hip hop

2nd in division character

2nd in division pom

The photo below shows how happy the girls are. The coaches Jordan and Mary Ann did a wonderful job and I'm so thankful for their positive influence.

Everyone wanted a photo with this special trophy. It is made of glass.

I was so happy and could not stop smiling. The girls worked for months for this competiton. What a way to end 3 WONDERFUL years of drill for McKay. She said she is already missing it. I could not have asked for a better way to end my FIVE years of drill watching both Gentry and McKay dance. I am grateful for the lessons that they have both learned from their efforts and time on the team.

The fact that someone stole her camera and ipod devastated her until I told her to put it in perspective. She was crying and felt so bad. I told her that it was just material things and at least she had not been hurt. Plus, we have the memories.... SHE could not stop smiling!

March 12, 2012

Today's show on My Craft Chwnnel is showing you how to easily create your own photo image transfers. I show you my own personal favorite way to print out photos on an inkjet printer. Using sheer heaven transfer sheets to easily transfer your photo to a porous surface. It's so simple and the creative possibilities are endless!!!!

These sheets are AMAZING!!!! PS they cost around $1.00 per sheet plus shipping.

I even did photos on doilys...

This is on my FABRICATIONS 10x10 covers. (fabrications trinkets on book corners)

I'm home doing TONS of laundry. Post tomorrow about our trip for Nationals. Check out my video today at www.mycraftchannel.com.

March 08, 2012

It's finally here... spending the next few days with these cute drill team girls. I will SAVOR this TIME & experience. I love each of these girls. I love the parents. It has been a great year for drill. No drama and lots of cherished memories. This weekend will be filled with MORE great memories. I can't believe my baby girl is going to graduate this year. Time flies TOO fast! Next year, she will be at college. I have peace in my heart- she is ready. I am not. Isn't this always the case?

McKay has a camera and so do I to capture the moments. I will make a special book to document this trip (like I did for Gentry's to NYC). I am so fortunate to have a super supportive husband who will take over carpools, watching the boys and more. Next week, Ty will be gone on a baseball trip with Zach. We are crazy busy and I would not change a thing!

March 07, 2012

I am going on another trip tomorrow. The school drill team is headed to Southern California to attend a Nationals drill team competition this weekend.

It is a tradition to decorate the drill team lockers right before the girls performance. Carol did the lockers this time using the Cricut machine and cartridges. McKay and I went over and helped place "all her hard work" on the lockers last night. Thank you Carol- the lockers are super cute!!!!!!

The girls are super excited to get to go to Disneyland together. I think they are excited to get away from the cold and snow for a few days too. The parents and girls are all going so it should be a really fun time. The girls stay together and I will be with the drill mom's (most dads are not attending!). It's a big girls weekend.

I loved the Mickey Mouse balloon by the girls locker. I asked McKay to please let me take a photo.

The lockers upclose- I think having a CRICUT is just a necessity for things like this.

I went to my last visit to the doctor yesterday. I finished 12 weeks...and it was definitely NOT EASY but I did it and I have decided to continue on my own in this journey. I went the entire time with not cheating once. I made a 100% commitment and gave my word "to myself" that I would do it. That helped me to know that I can do anything that I put my mind too. I have decided to continue to eat the same way and keep at it. They suggest that I add more food back into my eating program but still maintain the same calories and keep eating clean. Day by day... I'll keep going on my journey. Trying to find healthy food at Disneyland... is this even possible????? I will have to make it work. Losing weight when I'm motivated is the easy part...maintaining is my hardest battle.

Taylor had gum surgery this week. I am thankful that it was successful and that she is doing well. It was her second surgery since high school. They were more aggressive this time since the gum's had grown to be a problem again. Her gums seem to be thick and want to cover her teeth.

Today is all about getting McKay ready to catch the bus tonight to head to California with her team. A group of mom's are flying out in the morning. This should be fun!!!!! I am headed to my office today to work on my "Christmas" related products for next year. So I'm thinking all kinds of JOLLY thoughts. ha!

March 05, 2012

Where do I start? I had a WONDERFUL time in Georgia this past weekend. I traveled early Friday morning to Atlanta to visit my friends at EMI Scrapbooking. I arrived to a very warm welcome... I felt a big ole southern connection instantly with the girls.

The store is beautiful and they have a entire wall of TC products. They even have a big tree of "BLINGAGE." It was so fun to visit Susan's store. I loved that they have pre-made kits that you simply put together. I mean these kits are amazingly designed and they prep it with great detail. They had instructions and photos. I was impressed.

The workshops were all full and we had the workshops at a local hotel. It was a really nice hotel. When I arrived in my room I found some gifts. I was so touched with the thoughtful of the roses, a sweet card thanking me for coming and a necklace that Susan made for me. Susan truly went above and beyond in her thoughtfulness.

Then I noticed a letter and gift card to Charming Charlies from a girl who was not able to come to the workshops but wanted to let me know some of the sweetest thoughts that she felt about me. I don't want to share who sent this to me...but I want her to know that I cried as I read the letter. I felt overcome with feelings of gratitude for her gift of words and for sharing with me how I had inspired her. SHE inspired me. It really went straight to the heart. I can't thank "YOU" enough for doing this kind gesture to me. I will forever keep the letter and yes, I did truly appreciate the gift certificate. Thank you--- you KNOW who you are!

Then I got some really thoughtful surprises from TC Dye. She made Azalea TWO little tutu's, plus more stuff for me and boys. She knew I drink a TON of water and she loaded up my refrigerator with water. I was just overwhelmed with kindness when I arrived. Thank you TC for being so wonderful!

I arrived for the first workshop and the woman were outside the room waiting to get in. I noticed a familiar face- MARGIE ROWLES. I was in utter shock. Yes, she flew all the way from CANADA to take the workshops with her friends. YES, they kept it a surprise from me. I was overjoyed to see her and all the girls attending!!!!!

I finished the first workshop and then our phones started buzzing, sirens were going off outside and we were told to leave the room in the hotel right away. They wanted everyone to go to the hotel laundry room that had no windows. There was a TORNADO coming right at us. Here is the moniter from the hotel. The wind was crazy- the trees were swaying and I was a little in shock.

Everyone tried to keep calm, but I know we were all very nervous!

Ev

I was on my phone non-stop with my family. I kept praying for peace and calmness in what we were facing.

I remember taking this photo and someone commented..." I can't believe we are smiling." I think we were all just trying to stay positive. I went to bed Friday night with so much gratitude for the safety that we had. However, when I heard of the devastation that others had faced and life's lost it was heartbreaking.

Through it all- we had a great weekend of creativity!!!!!! We had lots of girl bonding. I can't tell you how much I gained personally from EACH of the girls who attended the workshops. I always feel like I am the LUCKY and blessed one.

This is one of the workshop girls. I wish I had ALL three workshops! I want to personally thank EACH girl for coming. We had girls from TEN DIFFERENT STATES at the event. Georgia, Virginia, Florida, Alabama, Canada, Texas, North Carolina, Tennessee, New York and Utah. They either flew and or drove at great distances to be there. I even made new friends this weekend. It was simply AMAZING to be surrounded by these talented and beautiful girls. THANK YOU GIRLS FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART!

This is Susan Lepore. I was humbled by how many girls had purchased my new idea book and brought it to the event. It really warms my heart!

CONFESSION- I could not keep myself warm. I think it because I drink so much cold water. However, I finally gave up and put on my pink hoodie. I am always cold and so I am looking forward to warmer weather. ha!

Then a few of us went to CHARMING CHARLIES...

I think we were there for at least TWO full hours! Here I was with TC Dye and (yes, we have the SAME name!) shopping for the good bling! It is a very good thing that there is not a Charming Charlies in Utah. I love how the store is color codes and you can find all kinds and styles of jewelry.

We also went vintage/antique shopping. No one would get in the photos with TC and I. Oh well- we had a blast. We only had 1.5 hours and we shopping FAST and with great purpose. ha!

We both bought the FRENCH papers that were over 100 years old. They were crumbling along the page edges. They were beautiful and I know that I will be loving all my new images. TC is a sweetheart. She drove from Alabama and she is so FUNNY and KIND!!!!! I really enjoyed getting to know her.

If I lived closer this blank chandelier would have been coming home with me. It was just my style and I really loved it. Oh well, it was not meant to be.

I'm home preparing to go on another trip on Thursday morning. Yes, this is for NATIONALS DRILL competition in Southern California with McKay. I am over the top giddy to go with my girl.

It is a NO WORK weekend. Yes, Disneyland and more is on the agenda- along with the competition on Saturday. I'm home doing laundry and playing catch up while spending time with the family.

I wanted to share my DESIGN TEAM blog for MORE inspiration with my new collections-

I'm home. I am posting a blog all about my time at EMI Scrapbooking, the TORNADO scare and more tomorrow. GA girls PLEASE send me photos today!!!! I am trying to "regroup" today.

On My Craft Channel show tody it features me showing how to emboss with my new TIMELESS embossing folders. Learn how to take embossing to a new level- Chic Embossing. Watch as I show how to use the Cuttlebug machine to create beautiful embossed cards, envelopes and even using materials like reflective paper. I hope you will be inspired to emboss your own affordable customized stationary, cards and more.

March 02, 2012

I should be in bed. I only have a few hours before I need to get up and head to the airport. I will be going to Atlanta for the weekend. Teaching at EMI Scrapbooking!!!! Thank you Susan and to all the students (friends) coming. My bags are packed and I am looking forward to a great weekend.

I promised to post more visuals of the workshop that I will teaching at Brentwood, CA at ART INSPIRED STUDIOS. I posted a few the other day, but did not show the details and some of my favorite parts of the workshop-

I am so in love with tags and tabs!!! I add them to all my projects.

We will be stamping ALOT in the caledar album. *ALL OF MY PHOTOS lift up to reveal the calendar pages-

I am even using some of stamps that I designed for Stamper's Anonymous- to this day... I keep using them!!!! I love them. *Remember THIS circle stamp. Flower- Everyday Moments

Oh yes, I still love this stamp from my FREESTYLE collection. I have a HUGE stamp drawer (two actually) that I have close by anytime I create. I will be bringing lots of stamps with me!

Oh, and we will be using the CUTTLEBUG too! I love to emboss and use cut & emboss.

I used my FABRICATIONS collection for this project.

I have no idea if there is room in the workshops. If interested, please contact the store directly. THANK YOU!

Sleep...sleep... sleep. I am going to try really hard to sleep for a couple of hours.

March 01, 2012

I had to share this PRECIOUS photo that Kayla took of Azalea. Oh, she is a sweet girl. She is getting so big! Her nickname is Zellie... so her.

The girl loves to eat! I miss her and Maxson. On Monday, Maxson fell and cut his chin open. Poor guy had to go to the ER to get stitches. I am sure Kayla was a distraught mother. I remember when McKay did a similar thing. She fell on a fireplace ledge and split her head open when she was only 2 years old. I still think about it... I was a big mess.

Okay... seriously, thank you girls for signing up for the workshops at ART INSPIRED STUDIOS! I got an email a couple hours after we posted... asking if I could get more supplies and add more students to the workshop. Thankfully, I was able to add FIVE more spots. So if you want to join us, make sure you call and sign up. I have decided to change up some of my workshops that I teach. I have started to offer a HOME DECOR project to my lineup. You know something that you would maybe want to display at your home or office. I was reluctant to do home decor in the past- which is silly since my background is interior design SO If felt it was too limiting to the end user. YOU know we all have different styles, tastes, etc. So far so good and I'll see how the workshops are received. Do you crafty girls like doing home decor projects? I would LOVE your thoughts.

I even had something MADE for my event in Manhatten Beach - Inspired JOURNEY! Girls, if you got it... be prepared. I give you the PIECES and we will create it. ha! I am going to post photos very soon. No worries girls who are not at the event- yes, I am going to be offering a "similar" home decor option to my future workshops. I can't wait to show you what I designed and had created.

Today is THE DAY for me. The day my artwork for CHA S is due. Oh yes, day to finally get my hair done (it's a mess!), a day to finish packing for GA (leaving early in the morning!), and TODAY is a day to enjoy the BEAUTIFUL new snow that is everywhere here.

Ahh... it finally feels like WINTER! I don't mind the cold as much when it's so beautiful outside.

Before you know it... it will be SPRING! (project by Sylvia Blum) Ahh...love the colors!

These colors in FABRICATIONS make me HAPPY! Love this project by Jamie Harder.